Habit Rouge Eau de Toilette

(Comparison of a 1988 EdT, a new EdP formulation, and a new Parfum formulation) This is silly. Why am I doing this. I’ve toyed with this for years. I’ve toyed with my “final” review(s) of the EdC/EdT through ad infinitum drafts that never seem to be done. Do I write separate reviews of these various concentrations and let them stand separately on their own? Do I put my thoughts on them together to appropriately showcase their marked differences, and let them stand on their own that way? Wouldn’t it make more sense to compare a new EdT formulation to the newer EdP and Parfum concentrations instead of an original EdT?... A significant reason for my wayward indecisiveness, which should be stated for full transparency, is that the EdC and EdT are going to be difficult for me to approach with any semblance of objectivity or rationality: the EdT is the first perfume I truly fell in love with. The first time I smelled it, many years back in my formative days, was an epiphany. I couldn’t get enough of it. After what was then a short number of years of only having explored a relatively small number perfumes that were highly commercial designer scents, finally getting to Habit Rouge EdT opened a door into a utopian world. “This is what perfumes can be like?!” To call it revelatory would be an understatement. For the purposes of this review, and for the sake of time and focus, I will leave the original EdC alone for a different time and focus here on the EdT; in a simple bullet point, the biggest difference is the higher strength and diffusiveness of the EdT, otherwise they are virtually the same. The EdT was the first HR I tried and has been a staple of mine ever since, I've gone through bottle after bottle, maintaining a rather obsessive collection of HR across various batches and formulations and concentrations for posterity, and marking HR as the only perfume that could get close enough for me to say it is my signature or my all time favorite. And, when really put to the task to assign a signature or favorite, it is the only one I’ve answered with. So, I’m going to give this a whirl, and accept that no matter what I write about one of the best perfumes ever made I am not going to be happy with what I write. Just take a swing, Nathan. It is what it is. Screw it. Let’s start with the Parfum. It opens with a bang of fruity rum notes. Something akin to the good ol’ effervescent bergamot of the original is trying to make its voice heard amongst the baritone roars but it just can’t, coming across instead as more of a slightly bitter, oily, boozy heat. What proceeds next is a browned caramel, boozy, leathery, vanillic, cured tobacco melange, and there it stays for the most part. The final skin scent leans a bit more dark woody, leathery, more bitter tonka than it is vanilla, and really calling to mind charred oak rum barrels. Habit Rouge has never been referred to as linear, until now with the Parfum. This has no frame of reference to the DNA that is Habit Rouge. Zero. This could (should) actually have been called something other than Habit Rouge. That said, if you can suspend annoyance, bias and preconceptions for a moment, it is very good. Though thick and rich - a big, suet caramel and boozy pudding of a perfume - it is easily wearable, maintains levity and breathability and never goes lumpen, it’s just on the right side of sweet, and very highly addictive. I wore this once during a frigid, snowy Christmas get together, where the smells of a wood fire in the hearth, roasting courses of a meal that took hours to consume, and baking desserts filled the air, family and friends hung on me all throughout the evening to get one more whiff. Habit Rouge though, it is not. The EdP tries for the effervescent bergamot opening and nearly achieves it except for an odd, oily, chemical finish that goes down the back of my throat. Once that calms down, the bergamot does come through as very convincingly HR with a bit more saturation and durability, as you’d expect from an EdP, and lasts for a surprisingly long time. Very slowly the floral heart starts to peak out that is balanced more towards rose than the EdT’s rose-carnation balance. This eventually cedes to a center-stage rose leather accord that is really quite beautiful. The rose is powdery, a touch creamy, and the leather is well-worn and suede-like in its presentation that really calls back to the original if but a bit stronger. The bergamot still carries on, albeit very quietly, and starts to link to the green facet of the patchouli in the base as the rose leather fully takes the stage. There is a regality and luxury to this heart layer of the EdP, compared to the more stately and austere layer of the EdT. The EdP then is a good option for the Habit Rouge lover that wants a bit more of a three piece suit feel, rather than dowdy equestrianism. It is plenty enough like Habit Rouge for me to say “yes, Habit Rouge” but it has its own character. The green facet of the patchouli rising upwards to link with the bergamot is a bit of a worry at first for those intimately familiar with HR, as I am. You question if this is going to descend into a dank green patchouli bomb as does so many masculines of the current day, but it doesn’t. That green quality stays very well behaved, lending a slightly bitter freshness and energy to the base and skin scent as the rest of the patchouli comes forward very faithfully to the original. The suede and vanilla remain as ethereal compliments before having more presence in the skin scent, which is true to the original with the leather, earth, woods, vanilla, and resins. The EdP is intended to be more luxurious and heavier than the EdC/EdT, but this careful and intentional balance of the green note with the earthy patchouli, suede, and vanilla makes sure that it does not get too heavy. There is a vibrancy to this regality and luxury. Lovely. Now for the EdT.... Ok, deep breath, Nathan; steel yourself, you can do this.... Sniffff.... Oh, dear god.... The sparkling, yellow-green and effervescent bergamot can cut through the darkest of moments. The conjunction of dusty aldehydes creates a hazy but determined sunlight that radiates from your person, not upon you. It is confidence and energy. There is a tango that starts with this bergamot and the fresh green herbs and slightly anisic woody notes coming up from the heart layer. The tension of this dancing pair is palpable, but instantly magnetic. The seamless lock-step movements with each other are stunning. Chills. It truly gives me chills. As the tango nears the end, a slightly creamy and heady carnation accented by woody spices comes in to resolve the tension. There is a bit of rose for breadth, and a touch of dry earth for depth, with the rose gaining intensity as time goes on. The rose stays on the side of gently powdery and pink, the accented tips of the petals of the carnation. The vanilla and leather at the base are in the background, quietly waiting their turn. They are clear on their instructions: let the rose, carnation, and spices have their turn; wait. The experience is all the better for it. As the base begins to take over, Habit Rouge still has plenty of tricks up its sleeve with this chypre plus amber combination. This blend is impossible. How does Habit Rouge have everything, a kitchen sink approach, yet presents as a fine broth made by a legendary chef rather than a soupy canned concoction a wannabe throws into a pot? Gently animalic leathers, a touch-sweet vanilla, creamy sandalwood, dry beige-brown and loamy patchouli, wisps of damp and green oakmoss, and resins of benzoin and labdanum that are just barely sticky like a very deep and slightly dried earthy honey; the rose and carnation gently caress the base before they depart. Just how. I can barely describe the dry down from the heart to the base without almost getting misty-eyed. It remains one of the most beautiful - and certainly probably my favorite - dry downs I have ever smelled. Nothing feels rushed, but timed exactly as it should be; the trees do not matter, it’s the forest we should be keeping an eye on. All the while the richness and diffusiveness become one with the air around you, never taking up a lot of space or attention but impossible to ignore. Ooof. I barely got through that, but yet I did. Hooray for me. In final thoughts, the Parfum is not Habit Rouge. It is quite good, but it should’ve been called something else. It has nothing to do with Habit Rouge. Therefore, if you like the Parfum enough to go full-bottle do not worry about putting a different Habit Rouge in your collection and creating redundancy. You won’t. The EdP is a faithful, appreciable, and wonderful reworking of Habit Rouge. For the Habit Rouge lover that needs a bit more oomph and saturation, it will do quite well, though the most noticeable differences will be the slightly off timing of the note evolutions, the greater prominence of the rose and leather, and some slightly screechy synthetic qualities - but the differences are negligible when the EdP is considered on its own, and rather simply a detraction relative to the experience of an original EdC/EdT when they are compared. The EdT is a masterpiece. Full stop. Yes, surely and certainly, it smells dated. Even in the 1960s when it was released it smelled a bit retro. But perfection doesn’t come with an expiration date. Yes, I used that word - and I stand by it. With nearly every perfume I have ever worn there is at least something about each of them that I could say I would slightly tweak a bit; at least a very tiny wishlist item that would make it a bit better. Not Habit Rouge. I would not change anything about it. If my home were to catch fire, there are three things I would grab: my partner, my dog, and my stash of vintage Habit Rouge. This perfume will be front and center of my collection, and with me for the rest of my days.

I am quite amazed by this fragrance for a multitude of reasons which I will be as thorough and probably concise as possible but the latter is quite difficult because there is so much to talk about in this creation. This fifty-nine-year-old fragrance, probably twenty-one if the reformulation counts, is one of the most impressive fragrances that stood the test of time. I cannot deny the still noticeable old-fashioned quality of a decades-old fragrance, but it is still quite wearable for people these days, and more suitable for those who can truly appreciate the art of perfumery, such as this creation by Jean-Paul Guerlain. The AI-generated pros and cons list is fairly accurate, and what caught my eye the most is "Distinctively French Fragrance" which got me thinking. I'm not French nor have that much knowledge of French perfumery, but reviewing this creation felt like an answer was immediate when asking oneself if it is one of the most iconic French perfumes in history, and I believe it may be up there. Getting on to the composition breakdown of this fragrance. The main notes here are the sharp lemon, beautiful rose, leather, and powdery vanilla notes. Then the other notes that add complexity to the scent are rosewood, carnation, patchouli, sandalwood, and a quartet of citruses (bergamot, orange, lime, and tangerine). Usually, lemon is one of the more old-fashioned citruses in perfumery, followed by orange in the 2000s (notable in fragrances such as Terre D'Hermes), and in modern perfumery where bergamot and grapefruit are the more used these days due to their balanced qualities (sharpness, bitterness, sweetness). And while people may not lean on these types of notes as much as before, these types of perfumes are usually meant to be appreciated for their craftsmanship and history. I am twenty years old and I already have reached the idea of wearing what I love and what suits me rather than following the trend of "compliment-getters", which sounds like a person is wearing the perfume that others will love immediately rather than appreciating the beauty in the scent. The rose and powdery vanilla accord, are one of the most popular notes during the early days of perfumery as other floral notes, usually white florals (jasmine, neroli, etc.) are more appropriate again in modern perfumery, while vanilla hasn't really been considered dated as it's smell will never be tarnished by time due to it being one of the most important notes altogether. Both of them are again "old-fashioned" considering this is an old fragrance with the reformulation slightly making it smell more appropriate in the 21st century without sacrificing the identity of the perfume. The leather note is one of the main notes that makes this bottle more masculine, even though this creation was initially considered to be unisex regardless if it was marketed to men. I have read the review below and one said that it is some form of Guerlain Shalimar but for men which I could see honestly. As a firm believer of feminine notes in men's fragrances, this is such an amazing step for Guerlain to do for such a very old fragrance. The rest of the notes I listed above may not be noticeable individually but they most likely improved the composition with the traditional quartet of citrus, the soft and powdery sandalwood, and the subtle green and floral of jasmine and patchouli. Now on to the longevity, projection, and value of the perfume. For its longevity, I expected Guerlain which people often underlook its quality control as a perfume house that does not cut out or weaken their composition for their own gain, and as usual, they did amazing with this. I currently have the modern bottle (clear square bottle, red label, and cap) and it lasted me six to eight hours with four to six sprays, and that's quite impressive for its lemon opening and rose-vanilla base. For projection, there isn't much to say as it is considered moderate and that's a good thing, as I believe fragrances should be discovered rather than announced to an entire room full of people. And lastly, its value is what is considered to be from great to excellent depending on where you will buy it. It is usually around $70 to $110, but if you do manage to get it on the cheaper side, it may be one greatest quality-to-price ratios in traditional perfumes. I believe anyone can wear most fragrances and fit their personalities, as long as they know how to use them properly. This type of old-fashioned perfume, will immediately click in the minds of people today that it is a fragrance for old and mature people, but it doesn't mean it will only suit them. I am quite young (early 20s) and I have surprisingly reached the part of perfumery where I want to appreciate the craftsmanship and the artistic beauty behind the composition rather than wearing what others will immediately consider pleasing them which started the "compliment-getter" trend. It is obviously not a bad thing, but people will miss out on experiencing the art of perfumery. I also might have discovered a quote that I resonate with a lot "Habit Rouge will make curious people intrigued by its beauty". As much as I feel weird to say this, another reason for me to buy this perfume is that I watched Jeremy Fragrance's video on his visit in Guerlain's headquarters and factory where he met Thiery Wasser himself. And a part of that video, Thiery shared his methodology in making a fragrance which is quite impressive and told him that he always wear Habit Rouge (Eau de Parfum specifically), which made me more convinced to get a bottle. I personally decided to make this my everyday perfume. I often use it in the daytime but is still great for night but I have L'Homme Ideal Eau de Parfum as my night-time fragrance. As other reviewers say, it's not that compatible during summer where the rose and vanilla might be too harsh in the heat, but it is still possible to wear it in warmer days as long it isn't blazing hot. I am still divided on whether I could wear this with casual attire or restrain myself towards smart-casual to formal attires, but I do spray less during casual events, whether staying at home or walking around during the day. Overall, Habit Rouge Eau de Toilette is an exceptionally beautiful fragrance that people will love if they also enjoy its traditional yet contemporary composition of notes. Its 4.18 review here is very accurate and quite impressive for such a scent this old, yet a lot of people still wear this and also surprisingly in production. And again, sample this first before deciding on buying a bottle since these aren't considered a good blind buy (also, blind buys in general is a bad idea). This creation will remain as one of the most historical creations in French perfumery altogether. Key points: - A traditional masterpiece in French perfumery - A fragrance meant to be appreciated rather than to appeal - Its lemon, rose, vanilla, leather blend is still impressive - Quite versatile, though hotter climates may not suit well (warmer temperatures is appropriate still) - More suitable for smart-casual/formal attire, while casual is still fine

There are some occasions when you review a fragrance that feel very conflicted and Habit Rouge is one example. It is one of those fragrances that feels as though it has been around forever and yet none of us know anyone who wears it. I've tried it three or four times in the past and it has caught me in a mess of indecision every time. I still have no idea whether I like, love or loathe this fragrance. It reminds me a bit of one of my ex-girlfriends. She didn't wear this but it sort of feels like something she'd have worn, literally and as an avatar for her, emotionally. So the opening is undeniably screechy and has all the citrusy notes here (yes, all of them and a couple of them twice it feels like) working with a very, very strong rose that is only partially reigned into politeness by some jasmine in the heart. The effect is a soapy citrus opening that seems too strong for itself, as if it is never truly under control somehow. The opening is polarising. I find the rose a bit too strong and it pushes this a bit too floral in the opening. You find yourself trying to justify it. But the drydown is a much calmer and more careful experience and I think this is where the beauty of this classic Guerlain comes into focus. The florals back off just enough as the myriad citruses start to die off and you get this gorgeous, rich patchouli and some spices that take this off its tracks completely and into territory I enjoy greatly. There is a slight creaminess to the base from the vanilla, labdanum and the amber that makes it go almost powdery and the patchouli does yeoman's duty in keeping this from careening off the edge and into a ravine of madness. I especially enjoy the way the oak moss and slightly musty leather in the base add yet another facet, again helping this from being too sweet and powdery. It is a funny one, this. It never stops being impossibly rich and powerful to an extent I don't think I've ever seen in an EDT concentration before, but the richness becomes more agreeable and plays better with others as it settles. I'd certainly recommend giving this one 30 minutes on your skin before making a judgement. This is not a fragrance you could or should ever make a decision on from the tester strip and if that isnt a metaphor for the aforementioned ex I don't know what is. I get a solid 7-8 hours off this and it projects solidly the whole time. Everyone around you knows you are wearing this. I've never tried the EDP or other heavier flanker concentrations of the Habit Rouge line but lets just say: at no point during the times I've worn this have I ever wished for it to be more powerful or to reach out and touch people from the parking lot. Would I wear this? It is unisex but leans quite heavily feminine for me and very powerful, extremely full-on, slightly cray-cray feminine fragrances can be a difficult reach. Habit Rouge EDT is a little bit in-your-face-bouquet floral for me so would be a daytime only thing I think, but at the same time it is very powerful indeed and would be a statement maker to wear to the office or boardroom. I'd need to be in the mood for it, although I quite enjoy the effect of wearing retro fragrances to work like Egoiste Platinum, Paco Rabanne or Antaeus. I see Habit Rouge as very much in this bracket and that isnt a criticism, merely an indication of where and when I would reach for it. But I would reach for it. I think most of all this is an interesting bit of perfumery that gives your nose a real workout. You sometimes have to talk yourself into liking it, especially when she is out of control and spinning in chaos in your personal space. Habit Rouge is a serious fragrance with serious performance you may not be expecting from an EDT, and is a nice example of a the way florals, citruses, woods, mossy notes, textured resin-ey notes, sweet, sour, bitter and so on can all be turned up to full volume and be made - compelled through sheer force of will at times, it feels - to work together. In the end, my ex and I never worked out and we arent in contact any more. But Habit Rouge EDT retains a spot in my collection for those (rare) moments where I crave the chaos and drama. Three Word Summary - A Rare Craving Scent - 6/10 Drydown - 7/10 Sillage - 8/10 Bottle/packaging - 7/10 Performance - 9/10 37/50

AN OLD FAITHFUL PARTNER My faithful old retriever Billy, a companion who shares many memories with me, is almost eleven years old. His soft but happy gaze remains full of a desire to play, although his legs no longer accompany him with the same energy as before. Ten years ago, he met my girlfriend, who is now my wife. He is now sitting next to me, watching me write this text peacefully. If I stop writing, his eyes open a little more in anticipation of affection or, who knows, a cookie. To my right is a bottle of "Habit Rouge EDT by Guerlain" that shares almost as many memories with me as my retriever. In it, I also find the liveliness of its notes, as well as the pleasure and comfort it gives me when I use it. Like many other dog owners, I think mine is very special. After the surprises of the first days, a relationship of trust and complicity was established between us. and remains unbreakable to this day. The Habit Rouge flask is also still here beside me. Several thoughts arise when I look at the flask. It is really different from any other fragrance with its superb note composition. The scent is still as delicious as it was when we first met. Its versatility allows me to use it in any place, any season, day or night. And he has never let me down. It has enough stamina for any occasion or place. Habit Rouge opens with a strong lemon note that I specifically identify as Persian lime (citrus limettioides), Probably, due to other citrus minor notes and basil, it smells like strong pleasant lemon tea. It's a powerful good quality lemon for sure. This stage is quite long which is a bit unusual. We can only conclude that this is a high-quality fragrance as it presents an above-average projection, sillage and longevity for this type of note composition. With the hearth stage, the scent becomes powdery with florals and sandalwood flavours, not losing the initial heavy lemon tea. The transition is subtle and well-blended. The bottom stage reveals a smooth yet persistent leather-vanilla accord. The transition flows like a wide river. You get the changes at a very slow pace while the primary notes are gently left behind, What a fantastic harmony! The dry down is just a bit sweet and extremely pleasant as well. The sweet and powdery leather-vanilla blend gives you a long moment of peace and joy. I judge the overall performance to be above average, mainly because the bold and fresh scents stay available for quite a long time. This fragrance is a unique and happy experience. Due to its well-tamed sweetness, I imagine this fragrance is unisex as well. I can picture its magnificent powdery sweet Vanilla-Leather drying down on a woman's skin. If you never tried it, don't know what you are missing. My Habit Rouge family (EDP, EDT, L'Eau, Dress Code) will always have a place in my heart as well as in my closet. My old faithful partner "Habit Rouge" in numbers: ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ Opening: 9.5 (strong Persian lime/lemon with bitter orange) Drydown: 9.5 (unique and alluring leather/vanilla blending) Longevity: 8.5 (above average; 3 sprays in the back of my hand vanished only after 10 hours) Sillage: 7.5 (average to above average; It projects heavily for a couple of hours and you get a sillage of up to 5 feet) Versatility: 9.5 (almost an all-weather scent) Usability: 9.0 (close to any place, anywhere) Exclusivity: 10.0 (unique, at least for me) Praise: 8.5 (Very good, but not in the major league of compliment grabbers) Quality: 10.0 (outstanding) Presentation: 7.5 (very conservative but extremely elegant and classy) Price: 8.5 (100ml tester for €30 at FragranceX + taxes in 2017; The normal 100 ml flask sells currently slightly under €40) ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ Average: 8.95 / 10,00 between 8 and 9 = recommended; Opinion: One of the best existing "all-around" scents. I really like it. The citrus notes are very pleasant and almost eternal. The leather-vanilla accord is unique. Recommended? Yes, please. Is blind buy worthy? Yes! Music: Simon & Garfunkel - "America"

TL;DR: a remarkable technical exercise in male perfumery, and one of the most dynamic scents I've encountered. Whether you like it or not is, in a way, neither here nor there. Encountering this scent is like getting the technical manual for perfumes. It's also absolutely stunning. The EdT also functioned to unlock the eau de parfum, as well. The EdT is more citrus in the opening, and incense/ambery in the drydown. The EdP is more rosey throughout, and feels more modern and (strangely for a floral) more masculine. ====== This scent represents something of an 'end point' to a fragrance journey, in that it feels that, now that I've smelled it, I can put down my lance, and give up the quest for the Holy Grail. Of course, I'll pick it right back up again - journey not the destination, blah blah... But. You know. Grail-ish, if not the Grail. The evolutions of this scent are amongst the most sophisticated dry-down experiences I've ever had. I already owned, and loved, the eau de parfum version of this, but this one behaves very differently. The opening is much more obviously citrusy than the EdP, and the drydown....my goodness, what a revelation. It is a rich, warm, sticky-but-not-sweet incensey amber-rose, which is (to me) almost overwhelmingly beautiful. It is a resinous, ambery joy running as a spine through hours 2-5 of wearing it. Now that I've smelled that dry down, I can sense it more clearly in the eau de parfum too, although it is far less conspicuous there. The eau de toilette feels like the exact opposite of the types of successful fragrances of now: it is the antithesis of Pasha Parfum, Sauvage Elixir, and Penhaligons Fantastic Mr Poshboy Gaw Blimey Me Beads Parody of Olde Englande. Although obviously a product of history, this feels more 'classic' than old. I'm a lover of many 70s and 80s perfumes, and I recognise that they really do seem from a different world; but Habit Rouge (both edt and edp) absolutely does not feel antiquated. It's like a trench coat or a little black dress: always correct, making the young seem sophisticated not fuddy-duddy. Interestingly, the eau de toilette makes much less of a play of the rose than the eau de parfum, and yet the EdP probably feels more straightforwardly 'masculine' and modern (floral though it is). But I think women would love both of these scents. Be assured: the eau de parfum is still a worthy extension of this tradition, but it wears a lot more 'modern' and contemporary than the eau de toilette. However, having smelled this, I can say: 1. I like this more than the eau de parfum. 2. This has taught me to like the eau de parfum even more than I did, because now I 'read' the EdP differently. It's like the one is the key to the other. The EdP may be more of a summer version of this scent profile than the EdT. I like them both very, very much, and they both seem to me to be, more than ever, the real Shakespeare plays of the masculine perfume world - though women would love this too. Knowing one has deepened my understanding of the other.

Wow! Guerlain never ceases to impress thats for sure! So, when I think of a Gentleman probably over 35, he's wealthy but does NOT flaunt his wealth, wears extremely expensive-taylored shirts/clothes which arent "Obviously Luxurious" or Flashy, Has a fabulous Watch collection, has a confident air about him and is kind and well mannered to others, but won't take any crap from anyone, I'd imagine him smelling like Guerlain's Habit Rouge edt. Think "Quiet Luxury" (NOT that Habit Rouge is a quite scent!)..This smells like a guy who other men would admire and maybe even aspire to be like (Myself included.) LOL!... I know, I know, Im gettin' WAAAY too deep with it! But man, this fragrance while most definately having a classic vibe to it, is just SOOO FREAKING ELEGANT and even "Comforting smelling!" Starts of very citrusy, yet NOT astringent, then it soon becomes more powdery as the signature "Guerlain Powdery Vanilla" starts to show its face while still retaining some of that beautiful Lemon/Citrus from the opening. The soft spices then finally start to appear and stays through the life of the wear along with that soft powdery accord. I suppose that folks may feel this can be worn casually, but imo this is a total Dressed-up, formal to Business Casual fragrance. Again, for those Cool, Unassuming true Gentleman types. Although this is NOT one of those "In yo face!" Type of fragrances, it does start off quite strong and can be Cloying and overwhelming is over- done wvwn by a couplespritzes too many, but unfortunately after the first two hours or so it does become pretty close lasting 4 to 5 hours on skin and ofcourse longer on clothes. Now, I have definately noticed that with my other Guerlains (L'Homme Ideal edt and Vetiver edt) the all around performance and staying power really do improve considerably with a bit of "Maturation", and so Im sorta confident that the performance will improve in about a month or so, therefore Im not really freaking out about buying a poor performing $80 fragrance (at the moment.) Still tho, Im wondering if I should've gone for the edp instead?🤔. Oh yeah, I would like to warn against Blind-Buying Habit Rouge edt for guys who DO NOT enjoy classic fragrances. When researching this scent some YouTube reviewers had mentioned that this was "A modern take on a classic dna," but I dissagree 100 percent. This is DEFINATELY a VEEERY Classic dna, its quite powdery, gentlemanly and although its absolutely gorgeous imo, some fellas will probably be turned off by this scent only bc of how "Dated" it smells (Although I'd call it TIMELESS!). So definitely Try before ya BUY especially of you're a younger man!! Anyhow, although it's NOT exactly what Id emagined, Habit Rouge edt smells really amazing, ill be back for an update regarding any improvement to the performance (IF any)... FINGERS CROSSED!🤞 And thanks to whomever took time to read my thoughts on this timeless, MATURE MASTERPIECE! An easy 9 outta10 in MY book! CLASSIC-SOPHISTICATION BABY!

It is sobering to think that come 2025, this will have been available for 60 years (or to put it in more dramatic terms, over half a century). My first brush with this was the older rectangular bottle with the silver metal cap. I wanted to like it and in some ways I did but invariably I didn’t like where it ended its journey. In the years since I’ve often thought about giving it another try. So for my birthday in 2023 I asked for this and received the current rectangular bottled formulation with red cap, EDT strength. They have absolutely tinkered with this and in what is a rarity in the world of fragrance, especially in the world of long established favourites, they have improved it. It actually works today whilst simultaneously keeping true to its heritage (no pun intended, Guerlain fans!) There is something absolutely “perfumey” about this, borderline aldehydic but it is so carefully kept in check that it never seems to quite cross the line. This seems to sum up its manner rather nicely - kept in check and never quite crosses the line. This is well mannered and civil, presentable, polite, refined, cultured even. I usually wear this for more formal occasions such as dinner or anything even more formal involving a dinner jacket and bow tie. It absolutely works in that context. More recently I wore it to the office and got a compliment from the very last person I would expect to notice this. A male colleague, a real “mans man” stopped next to me and started effusing about something that smelled really good then leant slightly towards me and inhaled again “that’s incredible” he said....and off he walked with a look of wonder. I don’t think of this as a sweatpants and t-shirt scent - unless of course you are wealthy or avant-garde enough to pull the combo off. This works well with formal but can also pass for smart casual acting in an alternate context like a bonus track that’s actually listenable, but here, within the context of your chosen wardrobe for that day (that last bit makes sense to me, apologies you may need to read again to decipher the gibberish). I”m ultimately pleased I gave this another try, not least to discover the brilliant changes that have been made to it. I’m not sure how the Parfum fairs against this EDT but I’m more than happy with the EDT strength. I do find it’s entirely possible to go nose blind to this - but as my colleague demonstrated, it still gets picked up by others long after you think it’s vanished.

Jodhpurs, Tropes & Mounties... There was a brief '90s moment where women were wearing jodhpurs & riding boots, and some discovered this amazing 1965 scent (which, to oversimplify it is a bit like a masculine leaning Shalimar). I wasn't one of those women, although I've heard the tale and lived to tell you mainly because I avoided the carnage of jodhpurs. But for such a timeless & gorgeous scent, the name and marketing for Habit Rouge probably wouldn't fly today, with it's invocation of the upstairs-downstairs trope & Imperial subtext. Some have gone so far as to call the ad campaign 'Kafkaesque', which pictures a party of equestrians about to embark on a hunt all dressed in red (habit rouges) of varying size, shape and description, which tilts the whole scene to the terrifying - even for those who weren't inclined to see it that way in the first place. But where could we find a hero or heroine who could redeem the scent to our imagination? As a Canadian, I might be inclined to choose underrated actor Paul Gross who rides a horse and wears a red-jacketed uniform on Due South (TV Series 1994-1999) which chronicles the adventures of an impossibly upright Mountie (Royal Canadian Mounted Police constable) and his American colleagues in the city of Chicago. (You can also catch this amazing actor in Passchendaele (2008)). There's a lot going on in the notes, but it opens with a lemon-y citus accented by Brazilian Rosewood, and already you can detect the 'Guerlainade' accord, which for me is a bit like bergamot-iris-leather. The tannins are already there with powdery/leather/bandaid notes as it transitions to the heart of rose, carnation & sandalwood. Emanating up from the base is a powdery, slightly soapy leather-vanilla all held together by a vintage amber blend and the comparisons to the Shalimar range come through. This has excellent performance for year round wear, and the powdery woody facets add versatility, but it might be too much in warm weather. Like many scents from the Shalimar range, this too evolves in the bottle, and only gets better with time. It's a longtime love for me. Enjoy!

Habit Rouge edt is a gorgeous, classic men's fragrance and although I do find it just a tad "Challenging" to wear, its only bc its is a VEEERRY classic fragrance and I feel that I could only wear this during a very upscale event with a fine-tailored suite or something. For those who aren't familiar with this fragrance, It opens with a smooth, beautiful Citrus which almost immediately becomes powdery and although it smells extremely refined, its an almost opulent wear bc of the strong-powdery presence along with hints of Vanilla, Patchouli and minute traces of Leather in the base.. it really is GORGEOUS! Also this is actially an updated review as Ive already reviewed Habit Rouge nearly 6 months ago when Id first gotten my latest formulation (Square Bottle) and I wanted to touch on the performance now that its had a chance to maturate.. The performance is now HUGE whereas initially it was good, but NOT like this! Habit Rouge edt is lmost Bombastic and if over-sprayed, can be VERY cloying so between 2 and 4 spritzes is great, but if ya do 4.I suggest waiting a good 20 to 30 minutes before leaving the house (Its like THAT! lol) and lasts a full 6 to 7 hours on skin and DAYS on clothes. So if anyone out here is afraid that the performance is bad for this latest formulation and are debating spending the $100 pricetag (If your lucky) then DONT BE! bv even with this latest formulation, its STILL worth the pick up! For instance, While I had something else on as my SOTD, I did just one spritz of HR edt on my arm yesterday for work just so I could sniff and enjoy throughout the day and I got a solid 6 hours off that one little spritz, and just that one spritz was reaching my nose despite of my SOTD which is antastic for an edt ESPECIALLY! Habit Rouge edt is a 10 outta 10 classic Gentleman's MUST OWN! Just need to spray a bit out your brand-new bottle and let it "Mature" in a cool, dark spot for a few months, its well worth the wait so that ya dont waste fragrance trynna get good performance. Now I just need to find the right occasion to rock this amazing scent at! Lol!

Classic all-time artful masterpiece that is as relevant today as it's been the past 60 years. Comments like old or dated are regrettable and probably a result of not understanding/ appreciating complex fragrances. I have enjoyed this scent for years and still use it as a signature at times. There are not that many perfumes as sophisticated at a respectable price level, though LVMH has increased prices across all Guerlain brands. It also seems that with recent new product introductions, including the Parfum versions for Habit Rouge, Vetiver and L'Homme Ideal, Guerlain marketing appears to target increasing its consumer base. This is fine as long as it keeps and does not touch its iconic brands which built the business over a century. I shall not go into a notes description, for the composition speaks for itself and is familiar to most by now. Instead, I'd like to describe my experience with it. Habit Rouge takes one on a fragrant journey, moving through different phases in a magical evolution and exploration of different flavours, pleasuring the senses: citrusy fresh, aromatic spicy, softly floral and leathery, culminating in the gloriously smooth Guerlinade, projecting refinement and masculinity, at the same time. It is like the arrangement of a classical orchestra playing a series of concertos, Vivaldi's Four Seasons come to mind. How many "modern" scents do that? Habit Rouge is a special DNA, has its own charismatic identity - unlike typical me-too generics. It is unique; nothing else smells like it! It is the most perfect elegant perfume I know and the only fragrance that has a hold over me; at times it 'demands' to be worn, specially to formal occasions. It is an excellent executive fragrance; perhaps too classy for general everyday use. It's a love and highly recommended. I wish that the younger generations develop a liking to classics and more complex fragrances; it would be a pity if not.

Re-sampling Guerlain Habit Rouge EDT, a scent I’ve not smelled in a while as it’s seldom for sale in my neck of the woods, and I’m especially intrigued to try as much of the line as possible. It’s an understandable powdery sweet staple of men’s perfumery for decades, having been originally released in 1965, it’s been recently reestablished in the square bottles that are the standard of the men’s signature lines, whether Habit Rouge, L’Homme Ideal, Vetiver, or Heritage. It’s intoxicatingly unisex, striking but approachable, a mix of citruses, iris, vanilla primarily, with a long list of additional nuances as far as resins, woods, florals, and leather. It’s one of the better expressions (and this is true of the other fragrances in the line) of blending a powdery iris into a multifaceted ensemble with sophistication while making a pretty big impression. It’s easy to see why this was a mainstay for a while and also why, starting about 20 years ago, Guerlain began iterating on the concept with various flankers, most of which I do not have a clue about. Unsurprisingly, the EDT does not perform as well as the Rouge Prive, Parfum, or Spirit Parfum versions that I’ve recently tried, but its lightness is likely an asset that for those wanting something more subtle, particularly considering its powdery/sharp qualities. The EDT does not seem to be for sale through official retailers but is widely available on grey-market websites, generally under $100 for 100ml, with some great deals available, Overall, I’m really impressed with the EDT, even if it’s not as exceptional as the Parfum and Spirit Parfum that conform more to my boozy gourmand-leaning tastes, but it’s perfectly understandable why the original EDT is so beloved, and I look forward to trying more entries in the line, the EDP being next. 8 out of 10

No! This is not modern! No! This is not popular! No! This is not for ordinary men! Habit Rouge is a gentleman who is sure of his nobility. And he makes it up for his reputation. He has extraordinary quality, beauty and artistic meaning. He starts with a strong closed citrus, mixed with a marvelous rose, a light tune of vanilla, exotic wood and a hint of leather. As time passes citrous gets lighter, vanilla shows up its power blended with this beautiful rose and the expensive leather, relating himself to a honored knight. He lasts about 12 hours or more like a true warrior. Projection? Strong for 4 hours or more, just like he was sure of his purpose. He is straight to his values and goals. HR is the only EDT I tried in my whole life (I had smelled many colognes and perfumes) that presents a sensation of a heroic indomitable will from a golden age. He wouldn't have a doubt about sacrificing his life in order to save yours. He, just like Captain America, is above trend or fashion. And for that reason he is undervalued and misunderstood for most of the "modern" people. But he is sure of his strength and identity however our current western civilization is not. We lost our values for the money. We keep our race for fame and success ignoring people around us needing our help. We killed our heroes. We killed the heroes inside of our hearts. In a world like ours, it is very easy finding a piece of art like Habit Rouge being treated like a boring, ordinary and old fashion. Nevertheless WE ARE THE ONE WHO CHANGED, not our heroes. We live in a grey shade of morals and reproduce it... so maybe if you intend to be part of this, it would be better keeping it up with your contemporary styled 1 Million. 10/10

What can be said about Habit Rouge that hasn’t been said? It’s a timeless masterpiece that is universally praised for a very good reason. I’ll talk about it from my perspective. I’m in my 20’s, and while I like some old school scents, I sometimes find them a bit hard to wear. As of today, this comes off as quite idiosyncratic, and I feel like there’s something rebellious about wearing a scent like this around people who wear Le Male Elixir, Invictus, and BDC. I spend most of my time around people my age, who don’t normally find Fougéres and chypres particularly pleasant, and are pretty vocal about it, but Habit Rouge in an exception. For the most part, it slips under the radar, occasionally getting a compliment, despite being so different. Habit Rouge EDT opens with a lemon that smells a bit like some cleaning products, and dries down into something that resembles baby powder or wet wipes, quite sweet and ambery, with a bit of smoky leather, yet it works. It’s strong, energetic and slightly abrasive, especially in the opening, but it’s controlled, it won’t sear your sinuses, and it quickly dries down into something more gentle. It’s a high class, luxurious kind of fragrance, but I don’t get the “dandy” impression that some do, it’s too jagged, the leather is too worn, there’s something humble about it. Habit Rouge plays a game of contrasts, almost as though there are 2 separate perfumes in this bottle that are constantly fighting over the reins, but it’s perfectly balanced. It’s the juxtaposition and the tension between the harshness and the softness that makes this scent so special, enduring and “signature worthy”, and I can see myself wearing it for the rest of my life. 10/10

When I first encountered Habit Rouge, I’ll admit—I didn’t get it. It felt like stepping into the wrong room: too feminine, too dusty, too rosy, almost like someone had spilled orange blossom water into a vintage handbag. My untrained nose was overwhelmed by the clash of citrus up top and that soft, creamy vanilla base. I couldn’t reconcile the tension. Was it trying to be a gentleman’s cologne or a baroque dessert? But something about it wouldn’t let me walk away. Maybe it was the pedigree, maybe the mystery, or maybe that oddly compelling bitter-orange sparkle that lingered after I’d dismissed it. So I kept coming back. And over time, it revealed its genius. That opening? It’s not just citrus—it’s a precise, classical bergamot-laden brightness that slices cleanly before giving way to a deeply textured, almost equestrian heart. The leather, once handbag-like, began to feel more like fine saddlery—refined, warm, lived-in. And the vanilla, far from cloying, anchors the whole thing in a sensual, comforting depth. It’s not linear, it’s not easy—but that’s precisely the point. This EDT formula (mine is the silver-capped, “Listerine” bottle iteration) has a brisk elegance to it. It doesn’t scream for attention; it evolves. There’s something incredibly rewarding about a fragrance that asks a bit from you in return—time, patience, openness. The more I wore it, the more it became a reference of sorts. Not because it was an obvious fit, but because it became mine through effort. Now, it’s a cornerstone in my wardrobe. I don’t just love it, I respect it. Habit Rouge taught me how to smell. And like all great things, it’s even better once you’ve earned it.

****Update since purchase on 8/19/25**** So, Ive never had the pleasure of experiencing Habit Rouge edt in its prior formulation before this latest (Square Bottle) reform, but after owning this latest formulation of the edt for wel over a month now and letting it "Maturate," this fragrance is STAAA-RRRONG! Yeah this edt STILL has great performance and although It's most certainly no "Beastmode" fragrance, I cannot do more than 4 spritzes and even after those 4 spritzes, I need to hang out around my house for atleast 20 -30 minutes prior to going out as this can be quite Cloying during the opening headed into the early dry-down, and it lasts on skin between 6 and 7 hrs. This fragrance has a VEEEERY Classic DNA and some may find it actually bit "Dated" (Myself included) but it really is such a classic and Genre Defining fragrance that its a MUST HAVE for any fragrance collector especially if they enjoy the classics. Also, the louder, "Dated/Powdery" aspects of Habit Rouge edt do calm down quite a bit after a few minutes and then your left with this GORGEOUS, Soft-Citrus with slight powdery and Vanillic touches along with hints of Leather which screams sophistication. A stellar fragrance with good performance still to this day! Just let your bottle chill out a bit after having introduced air into the bottle so you can get peak performance out of your bottle so ya don't just waste your "Juice" trynna get good performance out if it. A 9 outta 10 fragrance (In the Classic/Vintage category.) Thanks to whomever took the time to read my thoughts on this super awesome fragrance! CHEERS FELLOW FRAG-HEADS!

My beloved Habit Rouge has me think of when I truly inhabit the world of a fragrance. The hedonic treadmill of the fervent fragrance enthusiast in the 21st century moves on through an stunning array of options, yet no firm bond can be created. Timelines favor immediacy, vanquishing contemplation. Crushed by the wheels of consumerism, perfume ceases to embody gravity as a cultural object. "More and better" champions over "now and enough." I surely have caught this contagion, especially post-pandemic, but I still hold fast to the memory of what it was once like before a scent experience could be reduced to piffle: sound bytes and notes breakdowns sputtered on small, glowing screens. Habit Rouge was the most wonderful feeling when I first smelled it one spring day at Leavitt & Pearce Tobacconist many years ago. It smelled of ambition, optimism, and a little grit on the side. Sunny and warm, confident yet sensitive, it was the lemon and rose that first struck me, and its clove pink and spice soon thereafter, mellowing in a benevolent, granular vanilla suede. I wear it, and it's the only scent I care about when I do. We spend quality time, share memories, keep hopes and dreams alive in a downside-up world of disquiet. It's as if it releases oxytocin in me. It's my "now and enough." I marvel in its measured dynamism, its sophistication without arrogance, its approachability with character. It's what I aspire to be, so Habit Rouge is my muse. Allow yourself to fall in love with a fragrance like I have with Habit Rouge.

I apologize for being long winded but hopefully this review helps you. First and foremost, I love the house of Guerlain and have come to love Habit Rouge EDT, (square bottle). A bit of back story for those who aren't familiar.... Habit Rouge was created by Jean Paul Guerlain when he was faced with an interesting situation. Men who loved Shalimar on their wives or for themselves wanted a unique mens version of their own...... Thus Habit Rouge was born.....so yes, if this reminds you in a way of Shalimar, it's because that's what it was intended for. A male version of Shalimar. Yes, it was reformulated in 2003 but it's still a masterful fragrance. I have not had the pleasure of trying the OG but if it is better than the reformulated version...DAM. The Eau de Toilette begins with a blast of lemon-neroli accord followed by a soft, smooth suede note in the background, while on the whole it's powdery and dusty. Blended with traditional citrus notes in the opening to reach the intended outcome of a male Shalimar, deepened with the spicy notes of cinnamon and carnation. A true classy and gentleman's scent. Some may call it old school but in my eyes, the new school, acquatic blends of fragrances started a new generation's take which unfortunately have left classics such as Habit Rouge to be forgotten about. Not everyone will like this, but for those of us who do, it's because we can still appreciate those traditional, old school fougere fragrances. CLASSIC MASTERPIECE!!!!!!!

***Update from 8/19/25*** So, when Id first recieved/tried Habit Rouge edt I dont think I was ready for how powdery and "Classic/Old Fashioned" it smells, but Ive really grown to appreciate the classics the more my Pallette has evolved I even find them so much more fun to wear than modern perfume is. In the over 6 months Ive had my bottle, its "Maturated" into a NUCLEAR BOMB! LOL! This is very strong, the sillage is huge and it has fantastic lingering power, ESPECIALLY for an edt! (Beats the breaks off of my bottle of Shalimar edp) Very little goes a long way and I'm so glad that these newer "Square bottles" have such great atomizers bc its easy to control how much they spray out allowing for me to do half spritzes. A small half spritz on either side of my neck and one full spritz on my shirt will carry me through a full 8 hour work-shift. Super classy, most certainly NOT "Blind-Buy safe", sophisticated, elegant and the Epitome of Gentlemanly Perfumery! Just WOW! A 10 outta 10 fragrance within the (Masculine-Classic perfume) Gengre for sure! So folks, if ya'll are concerned about the performance of these newer Square bottles from Guerlain's men's line, DONT BE! Since Ive began collecting 3 years ago Ive purchased about 8 different dna's and they ALL have above average to great over-all performance! Just remember to be patient bc "Maturation" is a thing and can make a world of difference with performance! CHEERS!

Often compared to a variety of other perfumes, it may be argued this is one great that has gone underrated for some time. I have heard it referred to as the company's male answer to Shalimar, and although there is enough of Shalimar's DNA to warrant such a claim, I still view the two distinctly. For one thing, Habit Rouge feels more effeminate than its predecessor. The luminescent top of citrus sparkles brighter, the powdery heart of carnation and rose whispers softer. Notes of sandalwood and cinnamon feel gentle; and even the medicinal base comes forward with an exception tenderness. Everything feels subdued - slightly out of focus - like moving bodies behind a chiffon screen. Perhaps, a little tongue in cheek? Maybe Guerlain is expressing what it considers a virtuous man should be, and perhaps that's the version of the story I want to consider. Man, secure in himself, remains gingerly spoken, relying instead on his dependable strength and perseverance. Although that metaphor seems clever enough, I'd like to believe that particular virtuosity would benefit the world far better if every person expressed quiet constancy, instead of debating the roles and responsibilities of man and woman. In this way, the binary system, which codes all of human existence, would be allowed to do exactly what it was intended to, by providing infinite combinations, and allowing a vastness capable of all nature's possibilities.

Habit Rouge Eau de Toilette is a metaphor for life itself. Because in order to experience this fragrance and appreciate its true beauty, your participation is required. Namely... • Knowledge that things are not always what they seem at first. • Restraint to reserve hasty judgement. • Patience to enjoy the stages and art of the perfumer’s craft. • Humility to recognize that the perfumer certainly knows more than we do. While Habit Rouge may or may not ultimately be your style, approaching it—or any fragrance—with these precepts will always enhance your experience and enjoyment. The first time you smell Habit Rouge EdT you may be put off by the prominent citrus vanilla accord of the opening. Where's the leather? Your knee-jerk reaction is likely to be negative. Certainly, it's different than you had imagined. But don't judge too quickly. Embrace the opening for what it is. Observe the transition into the next stage. The leather that eventually comes isn't the Knize or even Bel Ami variety—both of which I love. Habit Rouge's leather accord truly is a fine, elegant, luxury car leather. This is an aristocratic leather. It took me a year to finally come around to really appreciate how elegant and refined Habit Rouge is. Take your time. It's not fast food. Resist snap judgements and Instant gratification. Habit Rouge embodies the perfumer's art. It's a privilege to wear.